In accordance with federal and state laws, DISD provides special education to students who are evaluated with a full, individual evaluation (FIE) and determined by an Admissions, Review and Dismissal (ARD) committee to meet the Texas Education Agency (TEA) eligibility criteria as having a disability condition and to need specialized instruction to receive a free and appropriate education (FAPE) in the student’s least restrictive environment (LRE).

Entry into special education:

There are three primary ways a student is determined eligible for special education

a. A campus RtI may refer a student for a full, individual evaluation (FIE) which is conducted by a multi-disciplinary team led by either a speech language pathologist (SLP), an LSSP (licensed professional in school psychology) or an educational diagnostician. Upon completion of the FIE, the student’s ARD committee will meet to review the evaluation, determine eligibility for services, and, if eligible, plan the students individualized education plan (IEP). (Contact your campus counselor)

3. Transfer from another district

a. Students who are eligible for special education in another Texas district or from another state are entitled to immediate special education services upon enrollment in DISD. The parent should bring a copy of the most recent ARD or IEP paperwork to the campus ARDC facilitator. If the parent is able to provide sufficient information, or the facilitator is able to obtain enough information from the sending district, then the “verification of IEP” form is completed and DISD attempts to match services as closely as possible. Otherwise, a “transfer” (or temporary) ARD is held and services are implemented pending receipt of full records. Within 30 school days of the initial verification or transfer ARD, the student’s ARD committee will meet to do a full ARD to finalize evaluation, goals, objectives, services and placement. (Contact your campus ARDCF)

The mission of the Dickinson Independent School District is to ensure that all students have safe and successful learning opportunities that help them reach their full potential and add quality throughout their lives.